More than 311,000 women have undergone breast cancer screening across the Valencian Community between January and September 2026, according to figures released by the Regional Ministry of Health to mark World Breast Cancer Day on 19 October.
The breast cancer prevention programme examined a total of 311,657 participants during the nine-month period. The screening scheme involves a bilateral mammogram every two years for eligible women. Across the region, 115,585 women were screened in Alicante, 154,731 through units in Valencia, and 41,341 in Castellón.
Health officials have emphasised the importance of attending screening sessions and are encouraging all women within the established age bracket to participate. Early detection allows for diagnosis at an optimal stage, significantly improving cure rates while enabling less aggressive treatments.
The screening process helps detect asymptomatic lesions in women before signs of the disease appear. Early identification ensures more effective treatment can begin promptly, supporting better quality of life and raising survival odds.
The initiative targets women aged between 45 and 74, aligning with current European recommendations for population-based breast cancer screening expansion. Over the course of the first nine months of the year, regional health services invited 473,198 women to take part through Breast Cancer Prevention Units located throughout the territory. These specialised units form the healthcare backbone delivering the scheme and maintaining equal access to preventive care across the population.
The regional ministry highlighted that the screening structure maintains extensive capacity to serve the target population, utilising updated technology, new equipment, and artificial intelligence tools to support medical professionals during mammogram readings.
Organisational and technological upgrades mean all units now operate with digital mammography, integrated image storage systems, and dedicated reading workstations. Diagnostic images are stored digitally to allow remote access, creating a more efficient reading process. In addition, all screening units are now fully integrated into hospital radiodiagnostic departments.
The health service is also rolling out the Criba-T information system to streamline the programme and improve accessibility. Information regarding screenings will be available via the GVA+Salut app, allowing women to view their details directly.
During 2025, the Breast Cancer Prevention Units in the Valencian Community diagnosed 1,875 cases of breast cancer, with 74 percent identified in early stages. Broken down by province, 977 cases were detected in Valencia, 688 in Alicante, and 210 in Castellón.
